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Heel Pain- Could it be plantar fasciitis?

Tired? On your feet a lot? Younger or middle aged and experiencing heel pain? It may be plantar fasciitis, one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia, the flat band which connects the heel bone to your toes, supports the arch of your foot.  If it becomes weak, irritated or swollen due to an injury such as a strain, you may experience pain bottom of your foot/heel while walking or standing.

What causes plantar fasciitis?
-Shoes that fit poorly (too small or large)
-Shoes with poor arch support or soft soles
-Walking, standing, or running for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces
-An injury such as a strain or sprain
-Flat feet or high arches
-Being overweight
-Biomechanical imbalance (i.e. rotated pelvis, short leg, tight or weak muscles, etc.)

Pain or stiffness at the bottom of the heel is a common complaint of those who suffer from plantar fasciitis. Pain generally increases or develops:
-During or after intense activity
-Climbing stairs
-After sitting or standing a long time

So how can you treat or prevent plantar fasciitis? Calf and arch stretching exercises are an easy and excellent way to reduce pain and help stretch the plantar fascia. Stretching before exercise and other activities will help reduce the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Rolling your foot with a golf-ball or massage ball can also help.  Dr. Kevin Rindal specializes in Active Release Technique, Graston Technique, exercise rehabilitation, FAKTR, and uses Low Level Laser Therapy to help reduce inflammation an promote healing.  

Often times, there is a biomechanical imbalance, such as an unbalanced pelvis, tight or weak muscles, or poor movement patterns that lead to this type of an injury.  It is important to not just treat the symptom, but also identify the cause of the injury.   Dr. Kevin is an expert at determining the cause of the injury and developing a rehabilitation plan.  InHealth also has an excellent Massage Therapy and Acupuncture team.  Both of these healing modalities can also play a pivotal role in aiding and expediting the healing process.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email Kevin Rindal, Seattle Chiropractor at DrRindal@InHealthSeattle.com.